Tasmanian News

Man charged with traffic offences in southern Tasmania

A 34-year-old man has been charged with multiple traffic offences in southern Tasmania after being intercepted by Huonville Police.

Police Charged a Man With Multiple Traffic Offences

Huonville Police confirmed that a 34-year-old man was charged after being detected speeding and committing several other traffic-related offences. The incident involved speeding, drink driving, and breaching licence conditions. The man was later taken to Huonville Police Station and formally charged. He has been bailed to appear in court at a later date.

Incident Took Place in Franklin During the Morning

According to Tasmania Police, the incident occurred at about 11.20am on the main road through Franklin. Officers detected the man travelling at 88km/h in a 50km/h zone. When police attempted to intercept the vehicle, they observed the driver throwing a full can from the driver’s side window across the road. The vehicle was stopped shortly afterwards.

Why the Charges Are Significant for Road Safety

Police reported that the man returned a breath alcohol reading of 0.058. Further checks revealed his vehicle was not fitted with a required alcohol interlock device, which was a condition of his licence due to previous offences. The charges highlight the risks posed by speeding and drink driving, particularly when licence conditions are ignored. Authorities emphasised that such behaviour endangers not only the driver but also other road users across Tasmania.

Sergeant Simon Ward reminded the public that speeding and drink driving are a “deadly combination” and urged drivers to follow road rules. He stressed that road safety is a shared responsibility and encouraged motorists to avoid driving after consuming alcohol or drugs. More details are available in the official Tasmania Police media release.

Quick Recap of the Key Facts

A 34-year-old man was charged by Huonville Police.
He was detected driving 88km/h in a 50km/h zone in Franklin.
The driver threw a can from his vehicle during the incident.
He returned a breath alcohol reading of 0.058.
The car was not fitted with a required alcohol interlock device.
He faces multiple charges and will appear in court at a later date.

Frequently Asked Questions

What offences was the man charged with in southern Tasmania?

The man was charged with exceeding the speed limit, driving under the influence of alcohol, discharging a missile by throwing an object from a vehicle, and driving a vehicle not fitted with a required alcohol interlock device.

Where did the traffic offences take place?

The offences occurred on the main road through Franklin in southern Tasmania. Police detected the man speeding in a 50km/h zone before intercepting his vehicle a short time later.

What was the driver’s alcohol reading?

The driver returned a breath alcohol reading of 0.058. While this is over the legal limit for certain licence holders, the man was also subject to an alcohol interlock condition due to previous offences, which he breached.

What is an alcohol interlock device and why was it required?

An alcohol interlock device is a breath-testing system fitted to a vehicle that prevents it from starting if alcohol is detected. It was a condition of the man’s licence due to past offences, but his vehicle was not fitted with one.

When will the man appear in court?

The man has been bailed to appear in court at a later date. Tasmania Police have not specified the exact date of the court appearance at this stage.

Images for this post are AI Generated to avoid copyright issues.

Ute clamped after Scottsdale ‘burnout’

A 23-year-old man from Scottsdale has had his ute clamped for 28 days after performing a burnout in front of police in the town’s main street.

Police Intercepted a Burnout in Scottsdale

According to Tasmania Police, officers were stationary behind a blue Mazda BT50 utility at the intersection of Victoria and King streets in Scottsdale when the driver performed a burnout. The incident occurred around 6pm on a Monday evening. The 23-year-old driver, who is from Scottsdale, had his vehicle clamped for 28 days and will be summoned to court for hooning offences. Police confirmed the action was taken immediately after the behaviour was observed in full view of a marked police vehicle.

Location & Timing with concise specifics

The incident took place in the main street of Scottsdale, at the intersection of Victoria and King streets. It happened at approximately 6pm, a time when the area is typically active with local traffic and pedestrians. The visibility of the act, directly in front of police officers, highlighted the seriousness of the offence.

Why the Incident Matters and Its Impact

This case underscores Tasmania Police’s ongoing efforts to reduce hooning and reckless driving across the state. Authorities have stressed that unsafe driving behaviour places the community at risk and will not be tolerated. In the last financial year, 60 vehicles were clamped specifically for hooning offences, with 11 of those in the Northern district. Overall, 175 vehicles were clamped statewide between July 2024 and June 2025 for offences including hooning, dangerous driving, disqualified driving, evading police, and excessive speed. The Scottsdale incident serves as a reminder that police are actively monitoring and enforcing road safety laws to protect the public.

Quick Recap

A 23-year-old Scottsdale man performed a burnout in front of police.
The incident occurred at Victoria and King streets around 6pm.
The driver’s blue Mazda BT50 was clamped for 28 days.
He will be summoned to court for hooning offences.
Police clamped 175 vehicles statewide in the last financial year for road offences.

For more details, Tasmania Police have published the official release, which can be read here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened in Scottsdale with the ute burnout?

A 23-year-old man performed a burnout in the main street of Scottsdale in front of police. His blue Mazda BT50 was clamped for 28 days, and he will face court for hooning offences.

Where exactly did the burnout take place?

The burnout occurred at the intersection of Victoria and King streets in Scottsdale, Tasmania. Police officers were directly behind the vehicle in a marked car when the incident happened.

What penalties can drivers face for hooning in Tasmania?

Penalties can include vehicle clamping, court summons, fines, and potential licence disqualification. Tasmania Police regularly clamp vehicles involved in hooning, dangerous driving, or other serious road offences.

How many vehicles were clamped in Tasmania last year?

Between July 2024 and June 2025, Tasmania Police clamped 175 vehicles across the state for offences such as hooning, dangerous driving, disqualified driving, evading police, and excessive speed.

How can the public report hooning or reckless driving?

Members of the public can report hooning by calling police on 131 444, or triple zero (000) in emergencies. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via crimestopperstas.com.au.

Images for this post are AI Generated to avoid copyright issues.

Road safety focus continues in north-western Tasmania

Tasmania Police have intensified their road safety enforcement in north-western Tasmania, with multiple drivers charged for drink driving, drug driving, disqualified driving and speeding offences over the weekend.

Police Conducted a Road Safety Operation Across the North West

Officers from Western Road Policing Services carried out a targeted road safety blitz in north-west Tasmania. The operation resulted in 21 drivers being issued with infringements or charges for a range of offences. These included drink driving, drug driving, disqualified driving and speeding. The enforcement activity took place over the weekend, according to Tasmania Police.

Offences Detected in Burnie, Devonport, Latrobe and Surrounding Areas

The operation covered several towns and highways in the region. Four drivers were charged with drink driving, including individuals from Upper Burnie, Homebush in New South Wales, Sandy Bay and Latrobe. Six drivers in Burnie and Devonport tested positive for drugs and will be summonsed to court. Three disqualified drivers were also caught behind the wheel in Burnie, Devonport and Penguin. In addition, eight speeding infringements were issued during a three-hour patrol on the Ridgley Highway through Ridgley, Guildford and Hampshire.

Why the Road Safety Crackdown Matters

Police emphasised that the crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to reduce Tasmania’s rising road toll. Acting Inspector Martin Parker noted that fatalities and serious crashes have increased this year, with alcohol, drugs and speeding identified as major contributors. With football finals underway, police urged drivers to avoid risky decisions such as drinking before driving. Authorities stressed that targeted and random patrols will continue to address high-risk behaviours including speeding, inattention, not wearing seatbelts, and driving while disqualified or unlicensed. The full media release can be read on the Tasmania Police website.

Quick Recap of the Operation

21 drivers faced charges or infringements during the weekend blitz.
Four drivers were charged with drink driving in Burnie, Devonport, Latrobe and Park Grove.
Six drivers tested positive for drugs and will appear in court.
Three disqualified drivers were caught driving in Burnie, Devonport and Penguin.
Eight speeding infringements were issued on the Ridgley Highway in a three-hour period.
Police warned of ongoing enforcement during football finals season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What offences were detected in the north-west Tasmania road safety operation?

Police detected drink driving, drug driving, disqualified driving and speeding offences. In total, 21 drivers were issued with charges or infringements during the weekend operation across Burnie, Devonport, Latrobe, Penguin and surrounding areas.

How many drivers were charged with drink driving?

Four drivers were charged with drink driving. They were from Upper Burnie, Homebush in New South Wales, Sandy Bay and Latrobe. Each was detected on local roads in Camdale, Park Grove, Devonport and Latrobe.

Were drug drivers also caught in the operation?

Yes. Six drivers in Burnie and Devonport returned positive drug tests. They will be summonsed to appear in court at a later date. Police highlighted drug driving as one of the major contributors to serious and fatal crashes.

What action did police take against disqualified drivers?

Three disqualified drivers were caught driving illegally. They included men from Park Grove, Devonport and Penguin. Each was charged after being detected on local roads during the weekend patrols.

Why are police increasing road safety patrols now?

Police noted a rise in fatalities and serious crashes this year. With football finals underway, authorities are concerned about increased drink driving and risky behaviour. Targeted and random patrols will continue to reduce high-risk driving across Tasmania.

Images for this post are AI Generated to avoid copyright issues.

Police clamp down on hooning and dangerous driving

Tasmania Police is stepping up its road safety measures, introducing more wheel clamps across the state to target hooning and reckless driving.

Tasmania Police Expands Use of Wheel Clamps

The latest road safety initiative involves the rollout of additional steering wheel clamps across Tasmania. These devices are designed to immobilise vehicles on the spot when drivers are caught hooning, speeding excessively, or engaging in other dangerous behaviours. The clamps will be distributed across the Western, Northern, and Southern policing districts.

Location & Timing with concise specifics

The clamp rollout is statewide, with Tasmania Police confirming that all three major policing districts will receive the devices. The initiative is part of the 2024–25 road safety strategy, following an increase in traffic offending compared with the previous financial year.

Explain Why It Matter and it’s impact

The clamp initiative is significant because it provides immediate consequences for reckless drivers. By immobilising vehicles at the roadside, police can prevent further dangerous behaviour and send a clear deterrent message. For Tasmanian communities, this move is aimed at reducing road trauma, protecting passengers, and improving safety for all road users.

Traffic Offences Leading to Vehicle Clamping

In the 2024–25 financial year, Tasmania Police clamped 175 vehicles. Of these, 60 were directly linked to hooning offences. Other offences included:

Dangerous and reckless driving – 3 cases
Disqualified driving – 23 cases
Evading police (non-aggravated) – 49 cases
Evading police (aggravated) – 22 cases
Speeding more than 45km/h over the limit – 16 cases

More than 100 of these vehicles were clamped for 28 days, while 21 were immobilised for nine months and 19 indefinitely. The Southern district recorded the highest number of hooning-related clampings, with 35 incidents.

Police Emphasise Road Safety as a Priority

Acting Inspector Rebecca Sulman highlighted that wheel clamps are a strong enforcement tool, ensuring offenders face immediate penalties. She stressed that dangerous driving, hooning, and excessive speed place everyone at risk. Tasmania Police has also reported a 22 per cent increase in traffic offenders compared with the previous year, reinforcing the need for stronger enforcement.

Police are urging the public to report hooning or reckless driving. Incidents can be reported directly to police on 131 444, or in emergencies via triple zero (000). Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, including the option to upload photos or video evidence online.

For more details, see the official Tasmania Police media release.

Provide a quick recap

Tasmania Police is expanding the use of steering wheel clamps.
175 vehicles were clamped in 2024–25, including 60 for hooning.
Offences include reckless driving, speeding, and evading police.
More than 100 vehicles were clamped for 28 days.
Southern Tasmania recorded the highest hooning clamp numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hooning and why is it dangerous?

Hooning refers to reckless driving behaviours such as street racing, burnouts, or excessive speeding. It is dangerous because it increases the risk of crashes, injuries, and fatalities, endangering not only the driver but also passengers and other road users.

How do police wheel clamps work?

Wheel clamps are devices fitted to a vehicle’s steering wheel, preventing it from being driven. Police can apply them immediately at the roadside when a driver is caught hooning, speeding excessively, or committing other serious traffic offences.

How long can a vehicle be clamped in Tasmania?

Clamping periods vary depending on the offence. In 2024–25, most vehicles were clamped for 28 days. However, some were immobilised for nine months, and in the most serious cases, vehicles were clamped indefinitely.

What should I do if I see hooning or dangerous driving?

If you witness hooning, you can report it to police on 131 444. In emergencies or life-threatening situations, call triple zero (000). Anonymous reports, including photo or video evidence, can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online.

Why is Tasmania Police increasing clamp use now?

Police data shows a 22 per cent rise in traffic offenders compared with the previous year. The increased use of clamps is part of a broader strategy to reduce road trauma, deter dangerous driving, and improve safety across Tasmania’s roads.

Images for this post are AI Generated to avoid copyright issues.

Unprepared walkers assisted by Search and Rescue – Bluff River Gorge track, Buckland

Two walkers were escorted to safety by police Search and Rescue after becoming stranded on the Bluff River Gorge Track near Buckland due to lack of preparation and fading light.

Police Assisted Two Walkers on Bluff River Gorge Track

According to Tasmania Police, a 30-year-old man and a 28-year-old woman contacted authorities shortly after 5pm requesting help during a day walk on the Bluff River Gorge Track near Buckland. The pair were uninjured but lacked essential equipment such as navigational tools and light sources, leaving them unable to safely exit the track as darkness fell.

Search and Rescue Response in Buckland

The incident occurred in the Buckland region, east of Hobart. With only around 15% mobile phone battery remaining, the walkers called for assistance as temperatures dropped and visibility diminished. A ground Search and Rescue team was dispatched and reached the pair several hours later. They were found cold but safe and were escorted out of the area without further incident.

Why Preparedness Matters in the Tasmanian Wilderness

This event highlights the risks of entering Tasmania’s wilderness without adequate preparation. Police emphasised that bushwalkers should always carry appropriate clothing, food, navigational aids, and emergency communication devices. Authorities also reminded the public that conditions can change quickly in Tasmania, making preparation critical for safety. The advice is particularly relevant given the popularity of day walks and the potential for inexperienced walkers to underestimate the environment.

Police issued a reminder that bushwalkers should avoid walking alone, carry sufficient warm clothing, and consider carrying a two-way emergency messaging device rather than relying solely on mobile phones. A full list of safety recommendations was provided, including carrying a map, torch, waterproof jacket, food, water, and a first aid kit. More details are available in the Tasmania Police media release.

Quick Recap of the Incident

Two walkers became stranded on the Bluff River Gorge Track near Buckland.
They had limited phone battery and no navigation or lighting equipment.
Police were contacted shortly after 5pm for assistance.
A Search and Rescue team located them several hours later.
The pair were cold but safe and escorted from the track.
Police reminded the public about bushwalking safety and preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Bluff River Gorge Track located?

The Bluff River Gorge Track is near Buckland in Tasmania, east of Hobart. It is a popular walking area known for its rugged terrain and natural scenery, but conditions can change quickly, making preparation essential for safety.

Were the walkers injured during the incident?

No, the two walkers were not injured. They were cold and unprepared for the fading light and conditions but were found safe and escorted out of the area by Search and Rescue officers.

What equipment should bushwalkers carry in Tasmania?

Police recommend carrying a map, torch, waterproof jacket, warm clothing, food, water, and a first aid kit. A fully charged phone with a backup power source and a Personal Locator Beacon or two-way emergency device is also advised.

Why is mobile phone battery life a concern on bushwalks?

Mobile phone batteries drain faster in cold conditions and when using navigation apps. Limited battery life can prevent walkers from calling for help or using digital maps, making backup power sources and alternative navigation tools essential.

What should you do before starting a bushwalk in Tasmania?

Research the route, check the weather forecast, and ensure the walk matches your fitness level. Always let someone know your plans and expected return time. Be prepared to turn back if conditions worsen to avoid unnecessary risks.

Images for this post are AI Generated to avoid copyright issues.

Two charged over North-West incident

Two people have been charged following an alleged incident near Natone in Tasmania’s North-West, with police confirming multiple offences and ongoing investigations.

Context: What Happened

According to Tasmania Police, a 35-year-old man from Launceston and a 27-year-old woman from Northern Tasmania have been charged in relation to an alleged incident in the Natone area. The charges include motor vehicle stealing, drug-related offences, and breaches of bail. Police allege that the pair broke into a home and stole several firearms, which have not yet been recovered. No physical injuries were reported during the incident.

The man is scheduled to appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court on 1 October, while the woman has been detained to appear in the Devonport Magistrates Court the same evening. Police have thanked the local community for their patience during the investigation and are continuing inquiries. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact police or Crime Stoppers.

Location & Timing

The alleged offences occurred near Natone, a rural locality in Tasmania’s North-West. Police confirmed the incident took place yesterday, though no specific time was provided. The matter has since moved quickly to court proceedings, with appearances scheduled in both Launceston and Devonport.

Impact: Why It Matters

The incident has raised concerns for residents in the North-West, particularly given the theft of firearms that remain unrecovered. While no injuries were reported, the presence of stolen weapons poses a potential risk to community safety. The charges also highlight ongoing issues with drug-related crime and bail compliance in regional Tasmania. Police have emphasised the importance of community cooperation in assisting with investigations, reinforcing the role of public vigilance in maintaining safety across the state.

At a glance

Two people charged over an alleged incident near Natone.
Offences include motor vehicle theft, drug-related charges, and bail breaches.
Firearms allegedly stolen from a home remain missing.
No injuries were reported during the incident.
Man to appear in Launceston Magistrates Court on 1 October.
Woman detained to appear in Devonport Magistrates Court the same evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened in the Natone incident?

Police allege that two people broke into a home near Natone, stole firearms, and committed other offences including motor vehicle theft and drug-related crimes. No one was injured, but the firearms have not yet been recovered. Investigations are ongoing.

Who has been charged over the North-West incident?

A 35-year-old man from Launceston and a 27-year-old woman from Northern Tasmania have been charged. Both face multiple offences, including theft and drug-related charges, as well as breaches of bail conditions.

When will the accused appear in court?

The man is scheduled to appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court on 1 October. The woman has been detained and is expected to appear in the Devonport Magistrates Court the same evening following the incident.

Were any firearms recovered by police?

At this stage, police have confirmed that the firearms allegedly stolen during the incident have not been recovered. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact police or Crime Stoppers to assist with the investigation.

How can the public assist police with the investigation?

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Tasmania Police on 131 444 or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via crimestopperstas.gov.au. Community assistance is considered vital in recovering the stolen firearms and progressing the case.

Images for this post are AI Generated to avoid copyright issues.

Police charge man following fire at hotel in Burnie

Police Charge Man Over Burnie Hotel Fire

Police have charged a 26-year-old Devonport man after a fire was allegedly deliberately lit inside a Burnie hotel, prompting an evacuation of the building’s second floor.

Context: What Happened

According to Tasmania Police, the incident occurred at a hotel on Wilson Street in Burnie. At approximately 1.30am, it is alleged the man deliberately set a fire inside a hotel room. The blaze led to the evacuation of the second floor as a precaution. No injuries were reported, and the Tasmania Fire Service attended the scene to extinguish the fire. The man has been charged with offences including arson and unlawfully setting fire to property, and was detained to appear before the Burnie Magistrates Court.

Location & Timing

The alleged arson took place in the early hours of the morning at a hotel located on Wilson Street, Burnie, Tasmania. Police state the fire began around 1.30am, with emergency services responding promptly to contain the situation.

Impact: Why It Matters

Incidents of alleged arson in public accommodation facilities raise serious safety concerns for guests, staff, and the wider community. While no one was injured in this case, the evacuation and emergency response highlight the potential risks posed by such acts. For Burnie and the broader Tasmanian community, the event underscores the importance of fire safety measures, rapid emergency service response, and the legal consequences of deliberately setting fires.

At a glance

26-year-old Devonport man charged over alleged hotel fire
Incident occurred at Wilson Street hotel in Burnie
Fire allegedly lit around 1.30am inside a hotel room
Second floor evacuated; no injuries reported
Tasmania Fire Service extinguished the blaze
Charges include arson and unlawfully setting fire to property

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened at the Burnie hotel?

Police allege a man deliberately lit a fire inside a hotel room on Wilson Street, Burnie, around 1.30am. The second floor was evacuated, no one was injured, and the Tasmania Fire Service extinguished the blaze.

Who has been charged in relation to the Burnie hotel fire?

A 26-year-old man from Devonport has been charged with offences including arson and unlawfully setting fire to property. He has been detained to appear before the Burnie Magistrates Court.

Were there any injuries from the Burnie hotel fire?

No injuries were reported as a result of the fire. Guests and staff on the second floor were evacuated as a precaution while the fire was brought under control.

How did emergency services respond to the fire?

The Tasmania Fire Service attended the scene promptly and extinguished the fire. Police also responded, leading to the arrest and charging of the alleged offender.

What are the potential consequences of arson charges in Tasmania?

Arson is a serious criminal offence in Tasmania, carrying significant penalties including potential imprisonment. The exact sentence depends on the circumstances and is determined by the court.

Shipwreck Artefacts Catalogued in Statewide Project

A comprehensive project in Tasmania has catalogued artefacts from historic shipwrecks, including items from the Katherine Sharer, which sank in 1855. This initiative aims to preserve maritime history and make it accessible to the public.

Context: What Happened

The Maritime Museum of Tasmania has undertaken a significant project to catalogue artefacts from shipwrecks around the state. This effort includes items from the Katherine Sharer, a ship that met its fate in 1855 at Port Esperance. The project is led by curator Camille Reynes, who is working to document and preserve these historical pieces.

Location & Timing

The shipwreck of the Katherine Sharer occurred in 1855 at Port Esperance, Tasmania. The current cataloguing project is being conducted by the Maritime Museum of Tasmania, which is located in Hobart. The timeframe for the project has not been specified, but it is part of ongoing efforts to preserve Tasmania’s maritime heritage.

Impact: Why It Matters

This project is crucial for preserving Tasmania’s rich maritime history, offering insights into the past and educating the public. By cataloguing these artefacts, the museum ensures that future generations can access and learn from these historical treasures. The initiative also highlights Tasmania’s role in maritime exploration and trade during the 19th century, contributing to a broader understanding of Australian history.

At a glance

The project is led by the Maritime Museum of Tasmania.
Artefacts from the shipwreck Katherine Sharer are included.
The Katherine Sharer sank in 1855 at Port Esperance.
Curator Camille Reynes is overseeing the cataloguing.
The project aims to preserve and educate about maritime history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Katherine Sharer shipwreck?

The Katherine Sharer shipwreck is significant due to its historical context, having sunk in 1855. It provides insights into maritime activities and challenges faced during that era, contributing to a deeper understanding of Tasmania’s and Australia’s maritime history.

Who is leading the artefact cataloguing project?

The project is led by Camille Reynes, a curator at the Maritime Museum of Tasmania. She is responsible for overseeing the documentation and preservation of the artefacts.

Where did the Katherine Sharer sink?

The Katherine Sharer sank in Port Esperance, Tasmania, in 1855. This location is significant for its historical maritime activities.

Why is preserving shipwreck artefacts important?

Preserving shipwreck artefacts is important for maintaining historical records, educating the public, and providing insights into past maritime practices and life. It helps keep the cultural heritage alive for future generations.

How can the public access these artefacts?

The public can access these artefacts through exhibitions and educational programs at the Maritime Museum of Tasmania. The museum aims to make these historical pieces available for learning and exploration.